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Following its recent global launch at Geneva Motor Show, the all new Ferrari F8 Tributo, homage to the most powerful V8 in Ferrari History, was unveiled by Al Zayani, the sole authorised dealer of Ferrari in Kuwait, in an exclusive Prancing Horse festival held at the new Kuwait Motor Town (KMT), the latest exciting automotive destination in the region.  This beautiful new product is currently touring the GCC market, to allow loyal Ferrarista to see the model in their home markets. 

The F8 Tributo is the new mid-rear-engined sports car that represents the highest expression of the Prancing Horse’s classic two-seater berlinetta. It is a car with unique characteristics and, as its name implies, is an homage to the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history.

The new model was revealed to an exclusive selection of VIP clients during an evening presentation hosted by Mohammed Dawleh, General Manager at Al Zayani and Giorgio Turri, General Manager, Ferrari Middle East.  This emotionally charged moment concluded a day of exhilarating Ferrari action that commenced with a triumphant parade through the streets of Kuwait to KMT, and a special appearance of the Monza SP1.

The high-octane schedule also featured a display of automotive excellence, in the form of a Ferrari Challenge show, in which Tani Hanna, regional champion took part.  The showcase of track activities produced a thrilling symphony of roaring engines throughout the afternoon, testing the handling of the new 488 Challenge vehicle to its limits.

Nail Al Zayani, Owner, Al Zayani commented, “This was an incredible moment for the Ferrari community in Kuwait. The reveal of the Ferrari F8 Tributo acted as a fitting conclusion to two days packed full of exciting Ferrari activities for our valued clientele. We were proud to hold our event for the first time at Kuwait Motoring Town, a destination that is perfectly poised to hold a special place in the hearts of Ferrarista here in Kuwait.”

Giorgio Turri, General Manager, Ferrari Middle East added, “Today’s event underlined the power and the prestige of the Ferrari lifestyle here in Kuwait. We are proud to showcase some of our most beautiful models together with the Ferrari Challenge at one of the world’s latest state-of-the-art racing tracks. The F8 Tributo is the most powerful V8 engine to date, carrying forward our legacy of delivering world-class design and unbeatable excitement to our loyal fans. I would like to thank Al Zayani for their passionate support of the brand in Kuwait.”

Mohammed Dawleh, General Manager, Al Zayani concluded: “The launch of the F8 Tributo was very well received by Ferrari enthusiasts here in Kuwait and we expect it to be very popular among our discerning clientele.  The F8 Tributo pushes further the boundaries of automotive excellence, delivering on the ethos of Ferrari that was set by its founder Enzo Ferrari when he said the best Ferrari is always the next one.”

The F8 Tributo sets the market benchmark for performance, driving pleasure and ease of handling. It makes the exhilarating performance of the best 8-cylinder in the world accessible to all drivers, with unprecedented handling and superior ride comfort.

The F8 Tributo replaces the 488 GTB and, in the range, is the model with the highest performance matched by the greatest driver involvement. There are significant improvements across the board aimed at providing even better control on the limit along with greater on-board comfort.

In the automotive world, Ferrari’s V8 engine is seen as the very epitome of sportiness and driving pleasure. This is particularly the case when it is mid-rear-mounted in a two-seater. Ferrari has been honing the scope of abilities of this architecture, which creates an optimal weight balance, and thus delivers unparalleled thrillingly sporty driving, to perfection for over four decades.

Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, the F8 Tributo is essentially a bridge to a new design language that will continue to emphasise Ferrari’s key characteristics of high performance and extreme aerodynamic efficiency. In fact, the F8 Tributo is the most aerodynamically efficient series-production mid-rear-engined berlinetta ever designed.

The F8 Tributo features state-of-the-art aerodynamics, integrating innovations and expertise developed thanks to the company’s involvement in the GT and Challenge championships. The solutions have been honed to create a series-production mid-rear-engined berlinetta with the highest level of performance available.

It was only through close synergy with the Ferrari Styling Centre that the strict aerodynamic constraints could be so flawlessly interpreted and integrated into the car’s design. A good example is the S-Duct at the front and the redesigned blown spoiler system at the rear which are underscored by the car’s clean yet decisive lines.

The cockpit retains the classic, driver-oriented look typical of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined berlinettas. Every element of the dash, door panels and tunnel has been completely redesigned specifically for the car. The F8 Tributo also boasts a new generation steering wheel and steering wheel-mounted controls as well as new styling on the standard seats.

Overall performance levels are significantly higher than those of the 488 GTB, thanks to the increase in power, weight reduction and improved aerodynamic coefficient. That performance is also now accessible to a larger number of drivers thanks to vehicle dynamics systems that make driving on the limit an easier and more confidence-inspiring experience.

The Ferrari F8 Tributo is expected to be on the roads later this year and is available only through Al Zayani, the sole authorized dealership of Ferrari in Kuwait.

via Passions Arabia

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with founding partner Marc Chaya

He knows how to talk about perfume like no other, using images that speak to everyone. Born an artist, Francis Kurkdjian became a perfumer. Through an association of ideas. Because he has a feel for his times, a desire to tell beautiful stories and curiosity about people and raw materials. For the pleasure of giving pleasure. For an attraction to taking risks – the antidote to boredom.

Our Zeina Mokaddam sat with Marc Chaya. Together with Francis, in 2009 they founded the Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Marc is the energy and business force behind Maison Francis Kurkdjian. 

Tell us a little about the DNA of the Maison of Francis Kurkdjian. 

You style yourselves as keen observers of society. In which aspects? 

Fragrance is a form of art, a form of creation that sits within its own time. Francis is an artist of the 20th and 21st century, and his work is reflective of his society and the era in which we live. The maison is a luxury fragrance house that carries the name of one of the most celebrated perfumers of our time. The DNA is that we see ourselves as the most luxurious fragrance house, but our luxury has a very special definition because we feel that the term ‘luxury’ has been overused and widely misused. For us, the luxury comes in the genius of creativity. Our luxury stands in the craftsmanship, in the knowhow. It’s not about the price, it’s about the quality of the work. Also, our luxury is shared through the highest levels of customer experience. We thrive on creating an uplifting experience through our fragrance. 

You’re marking a decade of the Maison. How have you seen the business of scents evolve over those years? What trends have you observed? What do you feel will be next to come? 

We’ve seen the landscape change dramatically. For nearly 60 years, fragrance was booming through something which became known as ‘mastige’ – a combination of mass and prestige. Fashion designers discovered that fragrance is an accessory that enables every customer to take a little piece of the designer’s dream home with them. If she can’t afford to buy a couture Chanel dress, she can afford a little bottle of perfume. However, through this ‘mastige’ the market became over-saturated. From designers, it then also became celebrities who marketed themselves through fragrance. In the early 2000s though, we began to see the emergence of niche brands. These grew because of customer demands, they wanted scents that were not widely distributed or too easily accessible. They wanted something more creative and sophisticated too. 

Then we saw an evolution in retail. Large stores looked for creativity in an attempt to reinvent themselves as destination stores to compete against perfume chain stores. 

Maison Kurkdjian was founded in response to these demands. We were and are creatively driven, not marketing driven. Our marketing simply serves our creativity. The industry is evolving in this direction. This is continuing. 

You refer to perfumers as artists. Tell us more about how you draw this parallel – particular in the case of Francis and his approach to the creative process. 

Perfumery is a form of art without question. In any form of art, you need to master your technique. You have to learn chemistry, how to mix essential oils. But even knowing this is not enough though – it doesn’t make you an artist. Francis Kurkdjian though, IS an artist, a creative genius. He regards those 800+ essential oils as colours, or as musical notes. He uses them to interpret and make real his visions. A perfumer isn’t a chemist, he or she is an artist. Something else to understand – art can express joy or sadness. But through perfume, we only express joy. 

Talk to us about the two spirits of Gentle Fluidity. The two perfumes are devoid of orientation. How does a scent successfully avoid gender? 

That’s the beauty of perfume. An essential oil IS gender neutral. It’s what you do with it that determines orientation. Take silk – you can cut it in to a tie and make it masculine, or you can cut it in to a dress and make it feminine. So, it’s what you do with your material – in Francis’s case essential oils – that gives it gender. Interestingly, in the Middle East there is no gender orientation in perfume – men and women can readily wear anything. Floral, woody, amber, anything. It’s only in the 20th century that the rest of the world started to define some scents as masculine, others as feminine. For Gentle Fluidity, Francis decided to celebrate these aspects and similarities. He has used the same five base notes to create two different scents. 

How should they be worn? Individually, blended on the skin? 

Every one of our creations is a stand-alone creation. They live on the skin in their own free way, they are not designed to be layered. They can complement each other though – in your own very personal way. Your scent is an invisible emotion that gives away part of your personality to others. Your perfume needs to make you feel happy, and feel at ease with who you are. Scents are often ‘love at first sight’ – you know immediately whether you like it or not. 

via Passions Arabia

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Ok, so we’re taking a break from crazy hairstyles and going back to basics. But it’s not as easy as it sounds. Getting the perfect blow-dry is harder, getting the perfect slick-straight hair is even harder! But if you follow a few simple steps, you’ll achieve it so naturally, it’s going to be your go-to look.

First, your hair should be at its healthiest state. Use a coconut oil or argan oil treatment at least once a week to get rid of excess frizz and to restore moisture. When beginning the process of styling your hair into a straight-do, start with completely dry hair, if your hair is naturally curly then blow dry it first. Do not use an oil-based thermal protector but do use one with less oil to minimize heat damage. Apply hair spray before you start straightening to make it last longer. Use a fine-tooth comb when using a straightener, comb your hair down while following with the straightener. 

Last tip, always straighten from the root to the end…

via Passions Arabia

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Dr. Suraj is a Specialist in Clinical & Cosmetic Dermatology at the Royale Hayat Hospital. Dr. Suraj treats disorders of skin, hair, and nails, while also specializing in Aesthetic Dermatology; this includes botox, fillers, and different types of lasers. 

A common auto-immune disorder, alopecia areata holds enough clout to cause immense psychological stress and discomfort amongst those suffering from it. We decided to shed some light on this particular subject, in conversation with Dr. Suraj, and address the issue head-on. Read through…

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata (AA) locally known as “talaba” is a common, inflammatory, non-scarring type of hair loss. There are many variations in the clinical presentation, ranging from small patches of hair loss to a complete absence of body and scalp hair. Patients affected by AA are seen in all age groups, sexes, and ethnicities, and may experience frustration with the unpredictable nature of their disease and significantly affect the quality of life.

The cause of AA remains elusive though significant advancement has been made in the understanding of its causative pathophysiologic mechanisms, and it is believed to result at least in part from complex autoimmune-mediated hair follicle destruction. Patients with AA frequently experience marked impairment in psychological well-being, self-esteem, and may be more likely to suffer from psychiatric comorbidities.

Are there many types of Alopecia Areata?

Several subtypes of alopecia areata have distinct presentations. Some of them have multiple patches of hair loss, some only on the back of the scalp (oophiasic type), some sudden graying type, and some total loss of hair on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes – alopecia totalis (AT), and some of them progress to hair loss of entire body areas – alopecia universalis (AU).

What are the outcomes after treatment?

Factors that may contribute to improvement include AA subtype, the extent of hair loss, duration of hair loss, age at onset, and family history. Approximately 5% of cases of patchy AA will progress to AT or AU. Extensive involvement indicates an unfavorable prognosis.

The oophiasis subtype can have a poorer outcome and may be less responsive to treatment, while the acute diffuse and total alopecia subtype generally has a favorable prognosis.

Are there any other diseases or factors causing or associated with AA?

Increased risk of AA development is seen in patients with atopy, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis has been reported. Multiple autoimmune diseases (including thyroid disease, psoriasis, and vitiligo) have been shown to have a high association with AA and also possibly with rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and type 1 diabetes. There are recent studies although not currently substantiated in AA, the circulating chemical mediators, the inflammatory cytokines certainly have the potential to adversely affect other organs, as seen in other autoimmune diseases like psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Nutritional deficiencies including vitamin D and iron deficiency, are also more common in AA patients. Patients with AA have been found to have higher rates of sensorineural hearing loss.

There is a strong genetic component in AA with a 10-fold increased risk in first-degree relatives. Stress and psychological disorders are among the most commonly cited causes of AA by patients, but the exact association is still debatable. A recent study reported a high prevalence of anxiety, depression and sleep problems among patients with AA. Furthermore, reports of suicide in children and adults with AA are concerning. Food with high dietary soy oil content seems to increase resistance to AA in laboratory studies.

What are the treatment options in Alopecia Areata?

Many therapies are available for the treatment of AA, including topical, systemic, and injectable modalities. However, these treatment methods produce variable clinical outcomes, and there are no currently available treatments that induce and sustain remission. 

Intralesional corticosteroids are considered a first-line treatment method for limited disease. Topical corticosteroids may be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, including intralesional corticosteroids. Minoxidil 5% foam or solution may be used as adjuvant therapy in AA. Alone, minoxidil may be insufficient to promote complete hair regrowth. Topical immunotherapy is another option with good improvement in many.

Short courses of oral corticosteroids are often sufficient to stimulate hair regrowth; however, the side effect profile precludes long-term use, and the likelihood of relapse is significant.

Most recently, a novel therapeutic option using a group of medications called JAK inhibitors shows promising results raising the hopes of AA patients and the treating doctors more than ever before and is presently available in Kuwait. Also, many existing medications used for other indications are being evaluated for their utility in AA. 

Overall, the treatment options for alopecia areata are increasing, and there are new promising treatments on the horizon.

via Passions Arabia

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Lina Bakir’s Fusion Dream: Unforgettable: A fusion of orchestra, singers and outstanding Kuwaiti pianists

She’ll be known to many of you as the musical impresario behind the decade-long series of ‘Une Nuit de Rêves’ concerts and, this time, Lina Bakir is back with something on an altogether larger scale – a night at the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Centre on Saturday 4 May from 7pm.

Lina’s ‘Fusion Dream: Unforgettable’ picks up where ‘Une Nuit de Rêves’ left off… and takes things to another level. Where those earlier dinner / concerts provided memorable evenings on an intimate scale, ‘Unforgettable’ takes to Kuwait’s most significant stage and offers the nation a dazzling musical journey around the world. 

For one night only, be inspired by performances from outstanding pianists as well as the talented vocalists and the superb orchestra accompanying them.

Delving into the heart of the Arab world with songs from Fairouz and Asmahan, you’ll travel through popular culture with Lady Gaga’s ‘A Star Is Born’ and Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’… amongst other well-known tunes.

You’ll get your toes tapping to the rhythmic beats of Latin tempo, and Bocelli’s inspiring songs including ‘Bésame Mucho’. 

Other geniuses are not overlooked – listen out for classics such as Chopin’s ‘Nocturne’ in C-sharp minor and ‘Casardas’.

At the heart of Kuwait’s musical maturation – Lina has taught two generations of the nation’s young musicians – she is a passionate supporter of the advancement of live performances and an advocate for the importance of the creation of a musically eloquent society.

The evening is supported by ABK, DHL and Bayan Dental Clinic. 

Do not miss it!

More info at jacc-kw.com

via Passions Arabia

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So many reasons to celebrate! To commemorate the honour of once again receiving 10 stars in the 2019 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards (five for the hotel and five for The Spa) and to mark the hotel’s 10th anniversary in the historic city of Boston, Mandarin Oriental, Boston introduces the ten-star themed Star-Studded Stay package. 

The Star-Studded Stay getaway playfully celebrates our ‘Perfect 10’ status, featuring lucky number 10 and ‘starry’ nods throughout the stay.

The Star-Studded Stay package is priced starting at US$18,888 plus taxes and gratuities and includes: 

• Two-night stay in the expansive Presidential Suite decorated with Star Orchids 

• Ten-star themed welcome amenity served on a Tiffany & Co. crystal star platter 

• One bottle of Dom Perignon 

• Five-course dinner for two with wine served in the Presidential Suite 

• Two Oriental Qi treatments at The Spa in the Mandarin Couples Suite. A simple, effective and authentic spa experience, this relaxing hands-on body massage works on the energy of the meridians’ while using the benefits of essential oils 

• 10 oysters per person for two people 

• Roundtrip transportation to Norwood Airport in a Mercedes S Class Sedan 

• 45-minute starry sky helicopter tour of Boston 

• Mandarin Oriental signature Candle, Bath & Shower Oil and Massage & Body Oil for two personalized according to each guest’s element

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The 2019 Nautilus introduces Lincoln Co-Pilot360

, which bundles many popular driver-assist features that were previously available only as separate options and makes them standard. It’s incorporated with an array of sophisticated technologies designed to inspire driver confidence.

Key features that make the new Lincoln Nautilus stand out

• Available Ultra Comfort seats for driver and front passenger, developed with input from orthopaedic surgeons, can be adjusted up to 22 ways. The feature, which provides lumbar massage designed to reduce fatigue, is especially beneficial on long trips or in traffic, and seats have available heating and cooling functionality

• Signature LED accent lights on the headlamps and tail-lamps add a sense of warmth, while ambient interior lights on the door panels, instrument panel and cupholders softly illuminate the interior

• Approach Detection technology – exterior welcome mats illuminate, and soft exterior and interior lights glow to provide feeling of a warm welcome

• Available powerful 2.7-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine produces 335 hp and 515 Nm of torque for effortless performance and refinement; standard 250 hp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo enjoys same new eight-speed automatic transmission and Auto Start-Stop capability

• Revel Sound system, unique and exclusive to Lincoln, uses Point Source Architecture, Field Balancing Shorting Rings, auto-adjusting “Clarif-Fi” that matches source quality with the precise level of audio reconstruction make the beautifully-built and designed 13-speaker  

Revel audio system and a 19-speaker Revel Ultima

system a highlight 

• Adaptive Cruise Control, with stop-and-go functionality: ACC can automatically slow the car, resuming higher speeds when traffic clears. The system activates the brakes automatically to bring the car to a complete stop if the driver fails to apply the brakes in time. New evasive steering assist and new 

• Lincoln Co-Pilot360

bundles popular, advanced driver-assist features previously available only as separate options, such as Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, rearview camera, auto high beams, and Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection 

• Enhanced Active Park Assist technology, complemented by the 360-degree camera, is designed to reduce parking anxiety by guiding drivers in and out of tight spaces. When activated, the system recognises a suitable parking spot, then assists in manoeuvring with both parallel and perpendicular parking 

• Large 8-inch centre touch screen with swipe capability serves as a portal to standard SYNC® 3 with both Apple CarPlay

and Android Auto

compatibility, enabling clients to manage audio, phone and navigation, including WAZE. Steering wheel-mounted controls are also available for some of these functions 

• Sophisticated push-button gear shift integrates seamlessly with classic knobs and buttons 

• A leather-wrapped, hand-stitched steering wheel is mounted ahead of a 12.3-inch fully configurable digital instrument cluster that displays driver information crisply and clearly

via Passions Arabia

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How do you define a style that transcends time, métier, form, and material? How can you sum it up in just a few words? At Boucheron, they can take a single idea, a noble one, and transform their vision of creativity and imagination into a breath-taking tangible reality. 

Captured by the lens of the talented Oliver Hadlee Pearch, Andreea Diaconu embodies this woman who is free to make the jewelry her own. Mixing the collections, wearing them her way and bringing High Jewelry pieces to life by combining them with a cashmere sweater, she is the epitome of style … This series of seven visuals and four videos tells the story of the unbridled creativity and incredible craftsmanship of a House that has always placed women at the heart of its creations. Because the Boucheron style is created by and with women. 

Following the announcement that the Maison Boucheron’s Paris flagship store is to re-open after eighteen months of work, this new advertising campaign will be another breath of fresh air for Place Vendôme and will allow the Maison to affirm its own creative vision; the very one that inspires the ever bolder pieces designed by Creative Director Claire Choisne. The Boucheron style belongs to the women of today who create and own their freedom. 

Andreea Diaconu is seen strolling through the salons of the Parisian hôtel particulier at 26 Place Vendôme. Newly renovated, this genuine family home now houses an apartment that imbues this campaign with a cozy, warm atmosphere, just like the welcome given to Boucheron’s customers and guests. The spirit of Boucheron lives within 26 Place Vendôme, with its values and expertise, keeping alive the taste for freedom and subtle transgression that became its hallmark.

via Passions Arabia

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Glacial surroundings, the muted sound of snow, spine-chilling thrills and a pale arctic sun…watch aficionados and fans of peak performance in extreme conditions can look forward to more than a frosty reception as Roger Dubuis and tyre specialist partner Pirelli set their sights on snow-bound Sweden for a test-drive event with a numbing difference.

Pushing all existing technical and aesthetic boundaries as far as they will go, Excalibur is Roger Dubuis’ favourite platform of expression. Against this background, and articulating its ‘disruptive materials and progressive complications’, of recent years, serial innovator Roger Dubuis has drawn inspiration from other industries to defy existing watchmaking codes at every level. 

Premier technology for icy conditions 

One such example of these exclusive alliances is the now two-year-old and much acclaimed “Perfect Fit” partnership between tyre expert Pirelli and Roger Dubuis, characterised by privileged exclusivity and a common focus on aesthetics in the respective R&D driven approaches of each, along with superlative technical engineering and high-tech materials. In February will thus see the pure adrenalin rush of a chance to test these brand-new high-power tyres at the Pirelli proving ground in Flurheden (Sweden), complete with a sneak preview of the latest Roger Dubuis interpretation of cutting-edge tyre technology. In the latest graphic demonstration of these distinguishing features, Pirelli is gearing up for the spine-chilling launch of a new patented studded tyre developed for high performance on ice in the most winter conditions. With optimized and patented stud distribution and a tread design developed to achieve continuous grip and high driving comfort, the Pirelli Ice Zero

is the ultimate demonstration of Pirelli’s incomparable expertise in the world of high-end tyres for premium vehicles – this time on snow and ice. 

In hot pursuit of the leader of the tyre pack, Roger Dubuis is thus once again leveraging its serial innovator attitude with the launch of the Excalibur Pirelli Ice Zero 2 timepiece. Part of Roger Dubuis’ iconic collection with its stated sport aesthetic and famous skeleton signature, and complete with double flying tourbillon, one of the world’s highest complications in the realm of Haute Horlogerie, the timepiece is powered by this Poinçon de Genève certified Calibre RD105SQ. The eight-piece limited edition Excalibur Pirelli Ice Zero 2 timepiece gets off to a sizzling start with a strap complete with the same state-of-the-art steel nail studded pattern. 

Consistently going the extra mile, Roger Dubuis takes this superb piece of watchmaking interpretation to the next level by removing the DLC treatment on the titanium super sports car style edges of this distinctive timepiece, highlighting the Excalibur Pirelli Ice Zero 2 timepiece’s own iconic contours in a stylish nod to its motorsports alter ego. The invigorating promise of a winter outing for well-wrapped up watch aficionados and fans of peak performance in extreme conditions… Yet another vivid demonstration of what happens when visionary engineers meet with incredible watchmakers ready to hot up the pace in sub-zero temperatures. 

via Passions Arabia

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A little over a decade ago, Abdullah Aleisa and his friend Abdul Ghafour Tfouni sat musing over issues of the day. One issue that crossed their conversation was that of style, and how today’s Gulf men, when wishing to dress in the traditional style of national dress – the dishdasha – were encumbered by the limitations of style offerings while in everything else they were avant-garde thinkers and innovative creatives. Wasn’t it time for a change? 

DAGLA opened its first store in 2012 and, with a passion to make national dress relevant once again, has since opened four more in Kuwait. Based on the pure principle of focusing on the finest details, Abdullah Al Essa and Abdul Ghafour Tfouni have built an enviable reputation for highlighting quality while respecting tradition. 

We met Abdullah Aleisa to learn more. 

What was the lightbulb moment? What inspired you? 

Over ten years ago I was sitting with my partner, and we were talking about how we like to change the status quo. We were reflecting how traditional clothing has been with us forever, and how the experience hasn’t changed. At that moment we decided to do something about it – to upgrade and update things. We talked it through, and immediately decided that it was something we must do. I’m driven by the aim of raising the quality of living – in any way. With DAGLA, we’re addressing our culture, our heritage, our men – all the right elements when it comes to redefining the way we live today. We were pioneers then, and are today. 

What is your aim? We guess it’s to contemporize on the traditional. How? 

It is not as simple as contemporizing the traditional – we have two elements. The first element is to create a quality experience – so, it’s the same thing, but through better quality. A better quality of thread, a better quality of stitching, a better quality of buttons, a better quality in measuring. It’s all about quality. A detailed finish. It saddened us to see the way men were dressing, what they were accepting as being ‘right’. 

Are you exploring new fabrics and construction techniques? 

Always. We started with traditional fabrics, and then kept adding to that. We introduced a lot of designs, and initiated a lot of collaborations – using local talent where we can. We inspired the creation of nice pieces that balance the tradition with the contemporary – it’s a fine line. 

How often do you come up with contemporary designs? 

It changes every season. In fashion, you have to be ahead of the game. In our first three years we created similar designs and demand started to grow. Then innovation kicked in. I think we’ve created a beautiful impact and also created a demand for something that wasn’t in the market before us. 

Where, other than your boutiques, is DAGLA currently available? What are your future plans in this regard? 

We have five boutiques. We opened our first in 2012 – it was and still is a small space yet highly frequented in Dahiat Abdullah AlSalem. Today our flagship store is in Blockat. Furthermore, people may call, book an appointment and we can visit them at their home or office. But this is not the essence of DAGLA. The essence is living the experience by visiting us in tore – the same as with any designer… Gucci, Prada… the experience is gained by visiting the designer at home. It’s the same with us. 

Our current plans include a move from our tailoring roots to become a retailer – we’re focusing on creating a brand. From being a tailor, we’re remodelling to become stores where customers can buy everything that relates to the style they want to be dressed in including shoes, accessories and bags. In the future we’ll be ready-to-wear as well as tailored… and it’s happening as we speak! We’re aiming to compete on an international level. 

We’re also creating an online store to cater to men’s fashion buying in general. Effectively, this will be our sixth store. 

What are the key details that define a quality dishdasha? 

It starts by taking the correct measurements, and by the tailor understanding what is right. There is a standard – there are correct proportions. Then we move to cutting – this must be handled by a master cutter with great experience. Very few people can take this ‘recipe’ of numbers and create an actual garment that fits and works and looks right. He’s like our executive chef. The right stitching is critical – everyone notices poor stitching. Good stitching needs the best skills and the best machines – we have both. We also give time to the process – it can’t be hurried. Then the finishing – the buttons, the collar, the cuffs. If we’ve done it right, it will always look right and feel right on the owner. 

All of these we can still address through ready-made, at least to some extent, even though there may be compromises to make. Through our experience, we can gauge what are typical standard sizes, and we understand fully the correct proportions. We can tailor ready-to-wear products with excellent accuracy and fit. 

What is your feeling about traditional dress in today’s world? When and where should it be worn? 

I believe traditional dress can be worn every day of the week. However, until now we haven’t received the opportunity to do so. At DAGLA, we create dishdashas of many forms – from casual to formal and everything in between. There is a huge demand from people to find a dishdasha they can wear for every occasion – this is what we are tapping in to. We’re preserving a tradition by making it relevant today. 

Now a little about your life and style… 

Other than the way a man dresses, what are the key identifiers of his style? 

I’m a big fan of integrating your personal attributes into how a man showcases himself to people. Whatever that takes. There’s no standard recipe. Build up accessories that reflect who you are and how you feel about yourself. It’s an individual process. 

When not dressed by DAGLA, what will we find you in? 

To be honest, I’m sure that as time passes and our retail collection grows, 80% of what I wear is from DAGLA. It’s a lifestyle. Outside that, I dress casually. 

In general, how well does the Kuwaiti man adapt to fashion and adopt new styles? 

They’re ahead of the game. They’re daring, they’re trying new things. They’re always on top of what’s new on an international level. There’s no question, we are early adopters and are happy to push the style-envelope. This is something that we should take credit for. We’re aiming to see the same bravery in the area of the dishdasha! 

Five-minute quick-fire Q&A!

When are you happiest? 

In the mountains.

What is your greatest fear? 

Not being able to have an impact on people’s lives and, ultimately, death.

What is your earliest memory? 

Jumping on my parents’ bed with scissors in my hand. I was only two and half years of age and ended up hurting myself in the chest and was rushed to the hospital. As such, later in my life, it was quite serendipitous when scissors became part of my life and career!

What is your most treasured possession? 

I’m not attached to material possessions. I could lose everything and still be happy. Having said that, I do love my ski boots – skiing is an essential part of my life.

What is the trait you most admire in yourself? 

I try to always be in synch with people and the world around me.

What is the trait you most admire in others? 

Honesty.

What would your superpower be? 

Peace-maker.

Who would play you in the film of your life? 

Denzil Washington would do a good job.

What is your favourite word? 

Abundance.

What is top of your bucket list? 

I want to ski on all five continents.

What is your guiltiest pleasure? 

My biggest pleasure is to travel. But I feel no guilt when I do!

What do you owe your parents? 

They passed on to me skills of individuality and independence.

How do you relax? 

Meditating, or simply being at home with my family.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life? 

Achieving contentment.

What keeps you awake at night?

Sometimes stress! Usually because I over-think things. Isn’t it the same for everyone?

How would you like to be remembered? 

I truly don’t care to be remembered. While I’m alive I want to make a change and improve people’s lives. Whether they choose to remember me won’t be my concern after I’m gone. By then, it’ll all be about the next generation.

via Passions Arabia

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And just like that, winter has ended as quickly as it graced us. I’m pretty sure we all still have that one sweater we bought towards the end of winter and for some reason decided to “save it for a nice outing,” but that never came around and now you’re regretting it. 

Yup, I can relate… Fret not! I have just about the right type of “nice outing” for you to look forward to “next winter”. An exclusive, one-of-a-kind concept that only runs for – get this – four months of the year.

Tawla By Jood (“Jood” is Arabic for Generosity) is a seasonal dining concept that began in the winter of 2016. Founded and fully operated by two moms, Suhair & Reem, this magical team of two engage you in a mesmerizing journey of top-quality deliciously cooked “home sweet home” vibes, with a side of ‘fantastic view’ and ‘cutlery.’ Yes, even their plates and napkins are a Mood.

“I wanted to be a walking, talking fantasy… A constant reminder to the world that it’s my oyster”

So, what is it exactly? Well, Tawla season starts every November. Depending on how grand the event is, sometimes it’s twice a month, and sometimes it’s just one big yummy fiesta a month. You want to know the best part? It’s always on a weekend making it hassle-free from work for everyone to attend this experience. 

Every Tawla of the month is set in a different location and supported by a totally different menu… Also, here’s the yummy kicker – it’s ALL homemade. And I mean, everything! 

The ingredients for the appetizers to mains to desserts are all hand-picked, some even home-grown. The moms go as far as making their own jams, flaming hot sauces, clotted creams, and lebnah. Every Tawla has its own dips ranging from pesto and harissa spreads to olive and lebnah pastes, and all these, on the side of crunchy baked bread strips.

Your typical Tawla buffet menu includes 5 salads, 6-7 mains (vegetarian & vegan options included), 6 desserts, a side table of tea, milk, and biscuits (also homemade), and of course, live music. It’s all you can eat so you might want to be there on time from start to finish.

My mom always says: “If you’re going to cook, do it with love.”

My biggest pro-tip to fully indulge in the Tawla By Jood experience is to sign up for their February table. It has become somewhat of a ritual the past 2 seasons – to hold this gracious Tawla in Sadeer Farms. A mini collaboration in celebration of Kuwait’s National & Liberation days: Tawla & Sadeer team up to give you a one-of-a-kind day full of activities, BBQ stations, a live band that takes in requests (yup, they cove patriotic Kuwaiti songs as well) and packages for families with children under 10, so they won’t have to exclude their young ones from the long trip.

Whether its breakfast, lunch or dinner, food has always brought people together. It’s a time for you to join with your family and loved ones after days of facing off with work and strangers. It’s a time to sit back, relax, and rekindle and even create happy new memories. 

Tawla By Jood was founded on those very virtues; Tawla’s number one aim is to give you a break from your busy routine and have time for your loved ones, and what better way to do that than over a delicious Tawla – just like home…

To stay up-to-date with this yumminess, follow the concept on Instagram @tawlabyjood, and stay tuned for announcements on their 2019-2020 season registrations to come. 

via Passions Arabia

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Known for her specialization as a Kuwaiti makeup artist with a modern twist, Sabika Al-Rashed, lovingly known as Seby, elegantly treads the fine line between keeping it simple and glamming it up, focusing first and foremost on the client and the appropriate occasion.

Realizing her real passion and love for “art” and “beauty,” Sabika discovered that she desired to explore further and develop this passion. She decided to quit her job at one of the leading banks in Kuwait and pursue her future aspiration.

Seby traveled back to London, where she had spent much of her childhood, enrolled in several professional courses at some of UK’s finest makeup schools, where she learned everything about makeup from skincare & face preparation to drag & SFX makeup. She was rewarded with 13 certificates, and the onward journey began.

What inspired you to work in the beauty industry?

Being raised in London when I was a young girl, I would be inspired by the simplicity and natural beauty of the west. I was fascinated by how these women looked so perfect, beautiful yet simple and I wanted to recreate such looks, first on myself, but also on women all across the Middle East.

How would you describe your makeup style?

Simple, timeless, effortless & classic. 

One of our personal favorite beauty product that we can’t live without is your beauty essence. 

Tell us about how you came upon the idea, the production process, and the public’s reaction.

Aww, thank you! I call it ‘my magic spell in a bottle.’ Working as a freelance makeup artist on different skin tones/types while also traveling 

to work with brides and for fashion weeks, I had wanted to pack one product that works for everyone, a product that can heal your skin and improve skin texture. That’s where I came up with the idea of my radiance glow lotion with my partner David Horne. It took us two years to get the right formula, and thankfully everyone simply loved it – everywhere! 

What differentiates a regular client from a bride, in terms of makeup styles?

For brides, I keep it classic and never follow trends, whereas for a regular client I can play more with colors and styles.

What is your go-to everyday makeup look?

No makeup honestly! I just let my skin breathe, that’s the only face I have, and my skin will thank me for it later. 

What are 3 beauty products you cannot live without?

My radiance glow lotion, Dior backstage lip balm, and my lash curler. 

What do you advise upcoming makeup artists in the region?

My advice is to ‘BE YOURSELF’; never compare yourself to others and never be shy to reach out to other makeup artists to learn from their experience, because I believe a true makeup artist is one who never stops learning and sharing her/his experience and knowledge. Everyone is more than welcome to visit my beauty studio in Kuwait to learn about everything related to makeup.

Wardrobe: Harvey Nichols – Creative director: DoubleA Studio – Photographer: Khaled Yasen 

via Passions Arabia

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A little over a decade ago, Abdullah Aleisa and a close friend sat musing over issues of the day. One issue that crossed their conversation was that of style, and how today’s Gulf men, when wishing to dress in the traditional style of national dress – the dishdasha – were encumbered by the limitations of style offerings while in everything else they were avant-garde thinkers and innovative creatives. Wasn’t it time for a change?

DAGLA opened its first store in 2012 and, with a passion to make national dress relevant once again, has since opened four more in Kuwait. Based on the pure principle of focusing on the finest details, Abdullah Aleisa has built an enviable reputation for highlighting quality while respecting tradition. 

Read his story soon in the April issue of Men’s Passion magazine, and online here at Passions Arabia.

via Passions Arabia

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The Officine Panerai watches are the perfect mix between Italian design and Swiss technology at the service of the passion for the sea.

Go to the photoshoot

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Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait is quickly gaining popularity both locally and regionally as must-visit urban resort. We talk to Didier Jardin, General Manager of this much sought-after property about everything from food, service and location to his personal connection with the brand.

  via Passions Arabia

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The Kuwait Yacht Show is a regional leader event in the yachting and marine sector. Set to open for its 7th edition at the end of March in Salmiya’s beautiful Marina Crescent, the KYS has continued to represent the pinnacle of the region’s yachting lifestyle against the glamorous backdrop of Kuwait since 2013.

For five days, yacht owners, future yacht purchasers, and marine-lovers attend the Kuwait Yacht Show to participate in one of the most important marine shows in the Middle East.

via Passions Arabia

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Last night saw the launch in Kuwait of the much anticipated Marzook X Sofia Richie ‘Neon Collection’. Held at the city’s Al Hamra Luxury Mall, a highlight of the evening was the personal appearance of Sofia Richie herself. Of course, we were there…

The evening’s pop-up event was supported by Zain Kuwait, Hanan Dashti, Luxuria, Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, Hamsa by Sharifa Al Ghanim, Al Hamra Tower & Luxury Center, Alfares Jewellery, and Atyab Al Marshoud.

via Passions Arabia